NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Members of the House Republican caucus have nominated Speaker Beth Harwell for another term in charge of the chamber but ousted Rep. Judd Matheny from the No. 2 slot.

Matheny, of Tullahoma, was defeated Monday by Rep. Curtis Johnson of Clarksville in a secret ballot.

Matheny had publicly mulled challenging Harwell for the top post before deciding to focus on another term as speaker pro tempore.

Both positions are elected by the entire 99-member House, but with 70 Republican members, the official votes are expected to be little more than a formality.

Majority Leader Gerald McCormick of Chattanooga was unopposed for another term, and Rep. Glen Casada of Franklin was elected Republican caucus chairman.

Previous story

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- House Speaker Beth Harwell is unopposed for another nomination to lead the lower chamber of the General Assembly as she heads into Monday's Republican leadership vote.

The 70-member Republican caucus is scheduled to elect its leaders at its first caucus meeting following this month's elections. While no one has stepped forward to challenge Harwell's bid for a second term, the No. 2 position of speaker pro tempore involves a competition between incumbent Rep. Judd Matheny of Tullahoma and Rep. Curtis Johnson of Clarksville.

Matheny explored a challenge to Harwell for speaker this year before deciding to take another run at his current position.

House Majority Leader Gerald McCormick of Chattanooga is not expected to face opposition, while Rep. Glen Casada of Franklin is poised to return as caucus chairman.